“One of our goals is to get young audiences excited about foreign language film,” says Drafthouse Films founder and CEO Tim League. “We combed the market and devoured the official selections. Nothing excited us more than La French.”

Cecile Gaget, head of Gaumont International, who negotiated the deal said “We want to launch ‘La French,’ a movie we consider to be a milestone in French genre cinema, with a director-friendly partner who understands how cool this movie is. We think Drafthouse Films is the perfect match.”

La French will be released in select theaters in 35mm along with a collection of vintage 35mm classic crime trailers curated by Jimenez (DCPs will also be available).

Drafthouse Films also plans a limited edition VHS release for the film in addition to traditional DVD, Blu Ray and digital formats.

Deal was negotiated by Gaget and Yohann Comte from Gaumont International and James Shapiro and Tim League from Drafthouse Films.

At Cannes, “La French” also pre-sold to Picturehouse Entertainment and Altitude Film Distribution for U.K. rights.